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Accounting for InnovationCan AI Become Your Business BFF?In this episode of the Accounting for Innovation podcast, Jody Padar and Matt Tait explore how AI can enhance personal leadership, firm management, and overall professional relevance. The episode highlights Jody's AIX Movement and its mission to update and elevate accounting practices using AI-driven advisory tools. With real-life examples and practical tips, we learn how to use AI as a strategic partner for better decision-making, client relationships, and operational efficiency.CHAPTERS:00:00 Welcome01:14 The AIX Movement04:34 AI for conversation Points06:43 AI as a Strategic Partner11:24 ChatGPT and Costa Rica and Family2025-07-0921 minAccounting for InnovationAI Agents 101: What Accountants and Firm Owners Need to KnowWhat if you could hire (and train) an AI agent like a real employee?On this episode of Accounting for Innovation, Jody and Matt explore the transformative power of AI agents in accounting and finance. They break down what AI agents are, their current capabilities, and their potential impact on the industry. Learn about the distinction between ‘traditional’ automation and AI agents, and how these agents can enhance efficiency by automating tasks that were traditionally manual. CHAPTERS:00:00 Welcome02:08 What Are AI Agents, Really?03:00 The Difference Between Agents and Automation07:16 Training Your...2025-07-0219 minAccounting for InnovationTransforming Tax with AI: Opportunities and Challenges for Firms and CPAsIn this episode, Matt Tait and Jody Padar explore the transformative impact of AI on tax preparation and accounting. From the accelerated development of tax software using AI to the practical applications in pre-tax work and tax planning, Jody shares her extensive experience in building AI-driven tax solutions. Listen to this episode to hear the potential speed of AI adoption among small and medium-sized businesses, challenges from legacy vendors, and opportunities for innovative startups in the tax software space. Sponsored by Syscloud ( TAG )https://www.syscloud.com/This episode is brought to you by D...2025-06-2519 minAccounting for InnovationFrom Transactions to Transformation: How AI is Changing Bookkeeping and CASWelcome to the Accounting for Innovation podcast. In this episode, Jody Padar and Matt Tait explore the revolutionary impact of AI on bookkeeping and Client Accounting Services (CAS). Learn how AI tools are transforming transactional work, categorization, and reconciliation, reducing data entry and significantly scaling CAS without additional headcount. Listen to this discussion about the evolution of AI in accounting tech stacks, highlighting key tools like QuickBooks, Puzzle, and Ramp, and how these integrations enhance operations. Discover how AI is enabling accountants to become better advisors and shifting industry paradigms. Don't miss this insightful discussion that could c...2025-06-1819 minAccounting for InnovationPractice Management in the AI Era: A New Frontier in Accounting EfficiencyWelcome to episode one of Season 4 of the Accounting for Innovation podcast, hosted by Matt Tait and Jody Padar. In this episode, the dynamic duo explores the impact of AI on practice management, specifically how AI tools are transforming firm operations from task management to billing, internal communications, and client follow-ups. In this episode, you'll hear:Applications of AI for practice managementTransitioning from legacy practice management systems to AI-first solutionsThe efficiency of tools like Keeper, Carbon, and CanopyThe significance of AI-native vs. legacy toolsTaking timekeeping to the next levelSponsored by SysCloudhttps://www.syscloud...2025-06-1122 min
After the First MillionLeading the shift to AI-first accounting with Jody PadarBuilding a successful firm requires more than just number-crunching; it demands foresight, adaptability, and a willingness to innovate.For the Radical CPA, Jody Padar, embracing the ever-changing landscape of accounting has been crucial. From pioneering cloud accounting to mentoring others in adopting technology, Jody’s career is a testament to transformative leadership. She has discovered that accounting is about more than transactions, and that they're more about making meaningful impacts in clients' lives through strategic, outcome-based approaches.In this episode, Jody explores her journey from launching her firm to becoming a leader in AI integration for...2025-04-0952 minAccounting for InnovationThe Accounting Revolution: How AI and Outsourcing Are Reshaping Firm OperationsAre you ready for the accounting revolution?In this episode of Accounting for Innovation, Jody Padar and Matt Tait reveal how the synergy between outsourcing and AI is reshaping the future of accounting firms. They highlight strategic integrations that maximize efficiency, agility, and value, setting the stage for a transformative era in the industry.In this episode you'll learn:The transformative impact of combining outsourcing and AI in accounting firmsOpportunities for small firms to compete with larger ones using innovative technologiesHow AI democratizes information and changes the economics of workStrategies for shifting accountants' roles...2025-03-0520 minAccounting for InnovationEveryday AI: Examples and Use-Cases for the Modern Accounting FirmHow is AI transforming the day-to-day operations of accounting professionals?In this episode of Accounting for Innovation, Jody Padar and Matt Tait discuss the practical integration of AI into everyday accounting tasks. They focus on how AI tools streamline operations, enhance data processing, and improve client relationships, making it an exciting time to be in the accounting field. The conversation also touches on the importance of adapting pricing models in response to AI efficiencies to ensure sustainable business growth. In this episode, you'll learn:How to define AI in the context of accounting and common misconceptionsThe...2025-02-2621 minAccounting for InnovationDoes Outsourcing Change Accounting Firm Culture?How does outsourcing affect your culture?In this episode of Accounting for Innovation, Jody Padar and Matt Tait discuss the cultural implications of outsourcing for accounting firms. They explore how integrating outsourced teams with your in-house staff can influence company culture, drive efficiency, and enhance service delivery. The duo shed light on the importance of team buy-in, effective communication practices, and the role of proper training in ensuring a seamless cultural fit.In this episode, you'll learn:The importance of team buy-in for successful outsourcing integrationStrategies for aligning outsourced teams with your firm's cultureBest practices...2025-02-1921 minAccounting for InnovationOutsourcing in Accounting: Benefits, Challenges, and Future TrendsWhy is outsourcing becoming a vital strategy for accounting firms today?In this episode of Accounting for Innovation, Jody Padar and Matt Tait uncover the rising trend of outsourcing within the accounting industry. They explain the evolution of outsourcing from a feared concept to a necessary strategy for both small and large firms. The discussion highlights the operational and financial benefits, cultural considerations, and how global collaboration is reshaping the profession. In this episode, you'll learn:The history and evolution of outsourcing in accountingKey benefits of outsourcing, including cost efficiencies and access to talentCultural...2025-02-1220 minAccounting for InnovationSeason 3 Overview: The Impact of AI and Outsourcing on AccountingHow can outsourcing and AI revolutionize your accounting practice?In this episode of Accounting for Innovation, Jody Padar and Matt Tait explore the transformative potential of outsourcing and artificial intelligence in the field of accounting. They discuss how these innovations are reshaping the profession, addressing common fears, and paving the way for a future-focused approach to accounting.In this episode, you'll learn:How AI and outsourcing can alleviate tedious tasks and elevate accounting practicesThe impact of emerging technologies on the overall cost and work structure within firmsStrategies for accountants to overcome fears and embrace these...2025-02-0522 minAccounting for InnovationGo-To-Market Essentials: Building and Expanding Your Accounting PracticeHow should accounting firms go to market today?In this episode of Accounting for Innovation, Jody Padar and Matt Tait explore go-to-market strategies for accounting firms. They discuss the transformation from traditional "rainmaking" to contemporary market entry techniques, emphasizing the importance of defining service offerings and identifying ideal customer profiles. The conversation covers strategic pricing, the role of personal branding, and leveraging digital tools to attract and retain clients. In this episode, we cover:Traditional and modern sales strategies in accountingThe importance of identifying and understanding ideal customer profilesDefining service offerings before approaching the m...2024-08-2020 minAccounting for InnovationFrom Old School to New School: Shaping The Next Generation of AccountantsCareers in the accounting industry aren’t the same as they used to be.In episode five of Accounting for Innovation, Jody Padar and Matt Tait discuss the critical transition facing the accounting industry as it shifts from seasoned professionals to the next generation. They explore the challenges and decisions young accountants face, whether to innovate within existing firms or venture out on their own. The conversation highlights the dynamics of legacy firms, the entrepreneurial spirit among young professionals, and the opportunities that modern technologies and methodologies offer in reshaping the accounting landscape.In this ep...2024-08-1321 minAccounting for InnovationBlending Tradition and Innovation: Lessons from the Accounting TrenchesHow do you balance new -vs- old when growing your firm?In this episode of Accounting for Innovation, Jody Padar and Matt Tait discuss the dynamic between traditional and innovative practices in the accounting industry. You’ll hear the strengths and weaknesses of both approaches, highlighting the reliability and proven methods of traditional accounting alongside the efficiency and scalability of innovative practices. These methodologies can lead to a more robust and adaptive accounting practice, emphasizing the importance of evolving business models to stay relevant and competitive.In this episode, we cover:The benefits of tr...2024-08-0621 minAccounting for InnovationM&A Success: The Story Behind Decimal's Purchase of KPMG Spark, Formerly BooklyWhat’s it like to buy a business from a Big 4 firm?In this episode, Jody Padar and Matt Tait explore the details behind Decimal’s acquisition of KPMG Spark, formerly known as Bookly. Matt shares the story of how the acquisition unfolded, including the motivations, challenges, and key takeaways from the process. The discussion highlights the importance of cultural fit, thorough due diligence, and strategic planning in ensuring a successful merger. This episode offers valuable insights for accounting professionals and business owners considering acquisitions as a growth strategy.In this episode, we cover:Over...2024-07-3016 minAccounting for InnovationThe Art of Buying Accounting Firms: People First, Economics SecondIs acquiring another firm the right move?In this episode of the Accounting for Innovation podcast, Jody Padar and Matt Tait dive into the intricacies of acquiring accounting firms. Matt shares his experience and insights on why acquisitions can be a strategic choice over organic growth, emphasizing the importance of cultural fit and people over economics. He details the stages of an acquisition, from negotiating a letter of intent to post-deal integration, highlighting the critical role of due diligence and trust-building. The episode provides valuable lessons for anyone considering mergers and acquisitions in the accounting industry.2024-07-2322 minAccounting for InnovationNavigating the Emotional Journey of Selling an Accounting FirmWhat will it take to sell your accounting firm? In this episode of Accounting for Innovation, Jody Padar—the Radical CPA—shares her personal and professional journey of selling her cloud-based accounting firm. Jody discusses the emotional complexities, the importance of aligning values with the acquiring firm, and the critical steps she took to prepare her firm for acquisition. In this episode, we cover:The emotional aspect of selling a firm and its impact on the ownerImportance of aligning values with the acquiring firmJody's journey of building a cloud-based, innovative accounting firm since 2010The proces...2024-07-1620 minAccounting for InnovationLeveraging Technology for CX EnhancementHow can accounting firms improve CX through technology?In this "Accounting for Innovation" episode, Jody Padar (Founder, Radical CPA) and Matt Tait (CEO, Decimal) explore the intersection of technology and customer experience (CX) enhancement within accounting businesses. We look at innovative strategies and transformative technologies that enable these teams to optimize client interactions, streamline processes, and deliver exceptional value. In this conversation, we cover:- The 3 major ways to discuss the client experience in accounting- Why communication is critical across all areas- Standardizing work is key to automating processes...2024-05-1021 minAccounting for InnovationUnlocking Value: Private Equity's Impact on Accounting and TaxIs private equity killing the traditional firm model?In this "Accounting for Innovation" episode, Jody Padar (Founder, Radical CPA) and Matt Tait (CEO, Decimal) dive deep into private equity and its profound impact on the accounting and tax sectors. Join us as we unravel how private equity firms transform traditional practices, drive innovation, and unlock new avenues of value for businesses and professionals alike. In this conversation, we cover:- How technology and cloud computing have enabled more efficient private equity rollups- Baby boomer retirement trends and challenges with traditional partnership models...2024-05-0920 minAccounting for InnovationStartups Shaping the Future of AccountingIn this episode of "Accounting for Innovation," Jody Padar (Founder, Radical CPA) and Matt Tait (CEO, Decimal) spotlight the burgeoning landscape of startups reshaping the future of accounting. Join us as we explore the innovative approaches and disruptive technologies these startups bring to the table and delve into their potential impact on the industry. In this conversation, we cover:- 3 buckets of accounting technology advancement- Emergence of niche startup accounting tools tailored for specific industries/needs- Importance of placing the customer at the center of technology development- Balancing fast adoption of...2024-05-0819 minAccounting for InnovationRise of the "Uber for Accountants"What does it mean to have accounting services “on demand”?In this episode, Jody Padar (Founder, Radical CPA) and Matt Tait (CEO, Decimal) explore on-demand accounting services, often called the "Uber for Accountants." Join us as we look at how these services are disrupting the traditional accounting landscape and the implications they hold for industry professionals. In this conversation, Jody and Matt cover:- On-demand/Uber-for-accountants platforms and how they are providing work for accountants- The importance of CX and how technology enables a seamless onboarding process- Why billable hours hold firm...2024-05-0721 minAccounting for InnovationThe Game Changers in the Accounting IndustryWho are the major players in the accounting industry today?In this episode, we dissect the landscape of the accounting industry, contrasting the traditional players with the innovative disruptors shaping the new age of accounting. From established firms to emerging contenders, we explore the key players driving change and paving the path for a transformative future:Traditional Players vs. Innovators- Big 4, top 100, G400 firms vs. emerging disruptors- Disruptors break up traditional business modelsChanging Customer Expectations- Buyers want multiple specialized providers, not one-stop...2024-04-2423 min